Sicilian Caponata with Eggplant, Peppers and Capers

Name: Sicilian Caponata with Eggplant, Peppers and Capers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Sicilian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 whole medium eggplants, cubed; 2 whole medium onions, sliced; 2 whole red bell peppers, diced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp capers, rinsed; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1/2 tsp fine salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Eggplant, peppers and tomato simmered with capers and a splash of vinegar.

By Hez ArslanUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 50 minMakes 6 servings

Jump to Recipe

This Sicilian-inspired caponata combines browned eggplant with onion, bell pepper, tomato, capers and vinegar. Cook the vegetables until tender, then let the dish rest briefly so its sweet-sour flavors come together. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wide skillet. Cook eggplant in batches until browned and tender; add more oil if needed. Transfer to a plate. Add remaining oil. Cook onions and peppers 8 to 10 minutes until soft. Stir in tomato paste with 60 ml water. Add capers and cook 3 minutes. Return eggplant to skillet. Stir in vinegar, salt and pepper; simmer 5 minutes. Cool 10 minutes and garnish with parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Sicilian Caponata with Eggplant, Peppers and Capers

How to tell when it is ready

Cook until tender and evenly heated as described.

Tips

Measure ingredients before beginning.
Use evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
Cool and store leftovers promptly.

Troubleshooting

If mixture is too wet, add binder gradually.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

Substitutions

Use a compatible neutral oil if needed.
Choose suitable alternatives for dietary needs.

Variations

Adjust herbs or spices to taste.
Add a suitable seasonal ingredient.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a fresh seasonal side.
Pair with bread, rice or another suitable accompaniment.
Offer a complementary sauce or topping.
Serve warm or chilled as directed.

Make ahead

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate perishable ingredients; finish shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Check caper and tomato paste labels for allergens. Refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly; finish close to serving.

How should I store sicilian caponata?

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and refrigerate leftovers safely.

About the author

Hez Arslan

Hez Arslan owns feastdelights.com and also writes practical recipes for everyday home cooking, from familiar Ukrainian dishes to meals inspired by kitchens around the world. His clear, step-by-step guidance helps home cooks approach each recipe with confidence.

Sicilian Caponata with Eggplant, Peppers and Capers